How to Start Squash Seeds

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How to Start Squash Seeds

Overview

In the U.S., squash is grouped into two types: summer and winter, depending upon when it is harvested. Summer squash includes zucchini, crookneck and patty pan. Varieties of winter squash include pumpkin, butternut and acorn squash. Starting squash seed is easy and they grow quickly. Start your seeds indoors three to four weeks prior to when you wish to plant them in the garden.

Step 1

Pour water over the planting mix until it is uniformly moist.

Step 2

Fill the peat pots to where they are almost overflowing with the soil.

Step 3

Push the squash seeds, three to four per pot, 1-inch into the soil and cover them with soil.

Step 4

Place the potted squash seeds in a brightly-lit area that remains 65 to 70 degrees F. If you are using grow lights, place the lights 12 to 15 inches above the pots.

Step 5

Add warm water to the plant misting bottle and spray the soil lightly to keep it moist. You don't want the soil to be soggy.

Things You'll Need

Peat pots

Potting soil

Plant misting bottle

References

Pittsburgh Post Gazette: Planting in Peat Pots

Iowa State University Extension: Growing Squash In The Home Garden

Keywords:
start squash seeds, grow squash seeds, plant squash seeds

About this Author

Victoria Hunter, a former broadcaster and real estate agent, has provided audio and written services to both small businesses and large corporations, worldwide. Hunter is a freelance writer specializing in the real estate industry. She devotes her spare time to her other passions: gardening and cooking. Hunter holds a Bachelor of Arts in English/creative writing.